Musamba Banza | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Musamba Banza | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc fellow | UNISA | South Africa

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza is a distinguished researcher and expert in machine learning and material development, with a strong commitment to advancing sustainable technologies. His research spans multiple domains, including machine learning applications in computer vision, natural language processing, and predictive analytics, alongside material science innovations aimed at addressing environmental challenges. Dr. Banza has contributed to the development of advanced materials like biodegradable packaging, polymeric hydrogels for environmental remediation, and nanocomposites for wastewater treatment. He is passionate about exploring cutting-edge technologies to solve complex real-world problems and has a track record of delivering impactful solutions. Dr. Banza holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Vaal University of Technology and has published extensively in international journals. His work is recognized globally, having earned him several awards for excellence in research and innovation.

Profile

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Scopus

Education

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering at Vaal University of Technology in 2022. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering (2014), followed by a Master of Technology in Chemical Engineering (2019), also from Vaal University of Technology. He further honed his expertise in the field with a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering (2016). Throughout his studies, Dr. Banza consistently demonstrated excellence, paving the way for his future groundbreaking work in machine learning and material development. His education provided him with a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles, materials science, and data analysis, which he has successfully applied in both academic research and industrial projects. His studies in sustainable materials and environmental science form the backbone of his innovative solutions in addressing pressing global challenges.

 

Experience

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza has extensive professional experience in both academia and industry. He currently holds a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of South Africa (2025-2027) in the Department of Environmental Sciences. Prior to this, he worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Vaal University of Technology from 2023 to 2024, contributing to research in the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering. Between 2019 and 2022, Dr. Banza served as a part-time lecturer and supervised numerous Bachelor’s and Master’s students. His industry experience includes working at Ruashi Mining (Metorex and Jinchuan Group) from 2012 to 2014, where he optimized copper and cobalt leaching circuits and conducted mass balance analysis and water balance studies. His diverse career has allowed him to bridge the gap between research and practical applications, demonstrating his ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges in both academia and the industrial sector.

Research Interests

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza’s research focuses on the intersection of machine learning, material development, and environmental science. He has made significant strides in applying machine learning techniques, such as artificial neural networks (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS), to solve complex challenges in various fields, including water treatment and environmental remediation. His work includes the development of advanced materials, such as biodegradable packaging, nanocomposites, and polymeric hydrogels designed to remove organic dyes, heavy metals, and rare earth elements from wastewater. Dr. Banza’s research also emphasizes the optimization of adsorption processes using novel materials for sustainable solutions in hydrometallurgical effluent treatment. By combining his expertise in material science with advanced machine learning algorithms, Dr. Banza is creating groundbreaking solutions that address both environmental and industrial challenges. His focus on sustainability and performance has led to practical applications that contribute to cleaner, safer environments.

Awards

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza has received several prestigious awards for his exceptional contributions to research and innovation. In 2021, he was recognized as a Young Researcher by the International Academic Awards for his pioneering work in material science and machine learning. He was again honored in 2024 when he was selected as the Best Researcher by the International Academic Awards, acknowledging his significant impact on environmental remediation technologies and sustainable materials. Additionally, Dr. Banza earned a certificate from Elsevier for his article’s contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, showcasing the global relevance of his research. These accolades underscore his dedication to addressing critical environmental issues through innovative scientific solutions. Dr. Banza’s awards demonstrate his consistent excellence in both academic and applied research, marking him as a leader in his field.

Publications

Blast Furnace Slag for SO2 Capture: Optimization and Prediction Using Response Surface Methodology and Artificial Neural Network

Authors: Kohitlhetse, I., Evans, S.K., Banza, M., Makomere, R.

Journal: Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly

Year: 2024

Volume: 30(4), pp. 349–357

Citations: 0

Modeling of Biomethane Production from Ultrasonic Pretreated Fruit and Vegetable Waste via Anaerobic Digestion

Authors: Matobole, K., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M., Rutto, H.

Journal: Journal of Environmental Science and Health – Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering

Year: 2024

Volume: 59(10), pp. 513–522

Citations: 0

Batch and Continuous Fixed Bed Adsorption of Copper (II) from Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) Using Green and Recyclable Adsorbent from Cellulose Microcrystals (CMCs)

Authors: Banza, M., Seodigeng, T., Linda, S., Owona, S., Musampa, P.

Journal: Journal of Environmental Science and Health – Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering

Year: 2024

Volume: 59(9), pp. 488–498

Citations: 0

Preparation, Characterization, and Application of Polymeric Ultra-Permeable Biodegradable Ferromagnetic Nanocomposite Adsorbent for Removal of Cr(VI) from Synthetic Wastewater: Kinetics, Isotherms, and Thermodynamics

Authors: Suter, E., Rutto, H., Makomere, R., Kiambi, S., Omwoyo, W.

Journal: Frontiers in Environmental Chemistry

Year: 2024

Volume: 5, Article: 1451262

Citations: 1

The Impact of Ozone Treatment on the Removal Effectiveness of Various Refractory Compounds in Wastewater from Petroleum Refineries

Authors: Khoza, N., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M., Ochieng, A.

Journal: Journal of Environmental Science and Health – Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering

Year: 2024

Volume: 59(4), pp. 189–199

Citations: 0

Energy Storage Through a Regenerative Hydrogen Fuel Cell in a Hybrid System of Renewable Energy for Power Generation

Authors: Nkwambe, M.S., Sutherland, T., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M.

Journal: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Year: 2024

Volume: 108, pp. 73–78

Citations: 2

Mass Transfer Modelling of Sclerocarya Birrea Kernels in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

Authors: Reddy, T., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M., Rutto, H.

Journal: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Year: 2024

Volume: 108, pp. 25–30

Citations: 0

Application of Artificial Neural Network and Shrinking Core Model for Copper (II) and Lead (II) Leaching from Contaminated Soil Using Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid

Authors: Banza, M., Rutto, H., Seodigeng, T.

Journal: Soil and Sediment Contamination

Year: 2024

Volume: 33(1), pp. 43–63

Citations: 5

Comparison Study of ANFIS, ANN, and RSM and Mechanistic Modeling for Chromium(VI) Removal Using Modified Cellulose Nanocrystals–Sodium Alginate (CNC–Alg)

Authors: Banza, M., Seodigeng, T., Rutto, H.

Journal: Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering

Year: 2023

Volume: 48(12), pp. 16067–16085

Citations: 16

The Use of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) in Dry Flue Gas Desulphurization Modeling: Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) and Bayesian Regularization (BR) Algorithm Comparison

Authors: Makomere, R., Rutto, H., Koech, L., Banza, M.

Journal: Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering

Year: 2023

Volume: 101(6), pp. 3273–3286

Citations: 15

 

Conclusion

Given his innovative contributions to sustainable technologies, interdisciplinary research in machine learning and material development, and global recognition through multiple awards, Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza is undoubtedly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His research, publications, and commitment to making a lasting impact on both industry and academia further solidify his candidacy. Dr. Banza’s work is poised to continue influencing global solutions for environmental challenges, making him an outstanding candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Hospice G. Gracias Avakoudjo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hospice G. Gracias Avakoudjo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Researcher | Laboratory of Applied Ecology of the University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

Hospice Gérard Gracias Avakoudjo is an esteemed agronomist and forester specializing in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture. With a PhD in Climate Change and Biodiversity, he has an extensive career focused on the impact of climate change on ecosystems and their relationship with human communities. Avakoudjo has contributed to several international research projects and consultancies, and his expertise spans across agroforestry, non-timber forest products, and dendrochronology, among others. He is dedicated to integrating climate adaptation strategies into national biodiversity policies and advancing sustainable resource management in West Africa.

Profile

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Education:

Avakoudjo holds a PhD in Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Sustainable Agriculture from the University Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Côte d’Ivoire (2020). He earned his MSc in Forestry with a focus on Natural Resources Management from the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin (2015). His academic journey began with a degree in Agronomy, specializing in Natural Resources Management and Planning from the same institution in 2013. He also holds a Baccalaureate D in Mathematics and Natural Sciences from the Office of Baccalaureate in Benin (2016).

Experience: Avakoudjo has gained extensive professional experience, including his current role as a Research Associate at the Laboratory of Applied Ecology at the University of Abomey-Calavi. Here, he leads research projects, trains students, and collaborates with local communities. Previously, as a Postdoctoral Researcher, he implemented a project on the climate influence on plant growth. He has also held roles as a consultant for organizations like the African Forest Forum, where he contributed to the development of agroforestry systems and land management strategies. His leadership has extended to environmental volunteering and advisory roles in various NGOs.

Research Interests:

Avakoudjo’s primary research interests include the effects of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services, especially in West Africa. His work examines the role of climate-induced biodiversity loss, adaptation strategies, and ecosystem resilience. He is particularly focused on the conservation and valorization of non-timber forest products and sustainable agroforestry practices. His expertise also extends to tropical dendrochronology, quantitative ethnobotany, and biodiversity informatics, all aimed at developing solutions for sustainable natural resource management in tropical regions.

Awards: Throughout his career, Avakoudjo has received recognition for his contributions to environmental science and climate change adaptation. Notable accolades include his involvement in the African Tree-Ring Network and his role in advancing the understanding of climate-growth relationships in tropical trees. His research on the impact of climate change on indigenous species like Strychnos spinosa has been acknowledged for its scientific rigor and its practical implications for biodiversity conservation in West Africa.

Publications:

Avakoudjo has authored several influential peer-reviewed publications, including:

  1. Degila J., et al. (2023). “Digital Agriculture Policies and Strategies for Innovations in the Agri-Food Systems—Cases of Five West African Countries.” Sustainability, 15(12), 9192.
  2. Degila J., et al. (2023). “A Survey on Digital Agriculture in Five West African Countries.” Agriculture, 13(5), 1067.
  3. Kochoni B. I., et al. (2023). “Contribution of mangroves ecosystems to coastal communities’ resilience towards climate change.” GeoJournal.
  4. Coulibaly A., et al. (2022). “Impact of climate change on the distribution of Bombax costatum Pellegr.” Trees, Forests and People, 100359.
  5. Atindehou M. M. L., et al. (2022). “Old Sacred Trees as Memories of the Cultural Landscapes of Southern Benin.” Land, 11(4), 478.
  6. Avakoudjo H. G. G., et al. (2022). “Effects of climate and protection status on growth and fruit yield of Strychnos spinosa Lam.” Trees, 1-13.
  7. Avakoudjo H. G. G., et al. (2022). “Wood anatomy and vessel characteristics of spiny monkey orange (Strychnos spinosa).” Dendrochronologia, 72:125941.

These works are widely cited for their contributions to climate change adaptation strategies and biodiversity conservation, particularly in tropical ecosystems.

Conclusion:

Hospice Gérard Gracias Avakoudjo is a leading expert in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture with a rich academic and professional background. His research continues to shape the understanding of climate-induced biodiversity changes and their impact on ecosystems and human communities in West Africa. Avakoudjo’s commitment to practical solutions for sustainable land management, agroforestry, and the conservation of natural resources reflects his dedication to fostering resilient ecosystems and promoting environmental stewardship. His ongoing contributions to the scientific community and local communities make him a valuable asset in the global effort to address climate change and biodiversity loss.

Giuseppe Maria Coclite | Nonlinear PDEs | Best Paper Award

Prof. Giuseppe Maria Coclite | Nonlinear PDEs | Best Paper Award 

Professor at Polytechnic of Bari, Italy

Giuseppe Maria Coclite is an accomplished Italian mathematician specializing in the field of partial differential equations. He is currently based in Bari, where he is involved in various research activities that significantly contribute to the mathematical sciences. His educational background is marked by rigorous training in mathematics, which laid a strong foundation for his research endeavors. Over the years, Coclite has garnered a wealth of experience in both teaching and research, contributing to his reputation as a leading expert in his field.

Profile:

ORCID

Education

Prof. Giuseppe Maria Coclite embarked on his academic journey in mathematics, laying the groundwork for a prolific career in the field. He completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at prestigious institutions, where he delved deeply into the intricacies of mathematical theory and applications. His education culminated in an advanced degree that emphasized partial differential equations (PDEs), a specialized area of mathematics that describes various phenomena in engineering and physical sciences. This rigorous training not only honed his analytical skills but also equipped him with a solid foundation in mathematical modeling, a critical aspect of his future research endeavors.

Experience

With a career spanning several decades, Prof. Coclite has established himself as a leading figure in the realm of mathematical sciences. Based in Bari, Italy, he holds a faculty position at a prominent university, where he combines his passion for teaching with his research pursuits. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students, equipping them to tackle complex mathematical challenges.

Prof. Coclite’s experience is not limited to classroom instruction; he is also actively involved in various research initiatives. Over the years, he has collaborated with both national and international researchers, contributing to a diverse range of projects that apply mathematical theories to real-world problems. His roles in these projects often involve not only analysis but also the development of innovative numerical methods and computational techniques, showcasing his versatility as a mathematician.

Research Interests

Prof. Coclite’s primary research interests revolve around partial differential equations, particularly nonlinear dynamics and mathematical modeling. His work is characterized by a focus on how PDEs can be used to describe and predict complex physical phenomena. For instance, he has explored applications in fluid dynamics, where the behavior of fluids can be modeled using PDEs, and in wave propagation, where mathematical models help to understand the transmission of waves in different media.

One notable area of his research is boundary controllability, which examines how to control systems governed by PDEs at their boundaries. This topic has significant implications in various fields, including engineering, physics, and environmental science. Prof. Coclite’s investigations into the dynamics of physical systems governed by PDEs have led to substantial advancements in understanding how these systems behave under various conditions.

His interdisciplinary approach often involves collaborating with experts in related fields, allowing him to apply mathematical concepts to solve problems in engineering, biology, and materials science. This collaborative spirit has resulted in innovative solutions and new avenues of research, further solidifying his reputation as a leading researcher in the mathematical community.

Awards

Throughout his distinguished career, Prof. Coclite has received numerous awards and recognitions that attest to his contributions to mathematics. These accolades reflect not only his academic excellence but also his dedication to advancing the field of mathematics. His recognition in the form of awards underscores his impact on both the academic community and his students, inspiring the next generation of mathematicians.

His contributions to the understanding and application of PDEs have been acknowledged by his peers, earning him a respected position within the academic community. Prof. Coclite’s commitment to excellence is evident in his pursuit of innovative research and his efforts to share knowledge with students and colleagues alike.

Publications

Prof. Coclite’s scholarly output is impressive, with over 170 publications in reputable mathematical journals. His works cover a wide array of topics, reflecting his diverse research interests and contributions to the field. Noteworthy publications include:

“Inverse Design and Boundary Controllability for the Chromatography System” – This paper explores the applications of PDEs in chromatography, a vital process in chemical analysis and separation techniques.

“Exponential Convergence to Steady-States for Trajectories of a Damped Dynamical System Modeling Adhesive Strings” – In this publication, he examines the dynamics of systems that exhibit damping, providing insights into the behavior of materials under stress.

“H2-solutions for an Ostrosky–Hunter Type Equation” – This research addresses specific types of PDEs, contributing to the theoretical understanding of their solutions.

“A Numerical Framework for Nonlinear Peridynamics on Two-Dimensional Manifolds Based on Implicit P-(EC)k Schemes” – This paper presents a novel numerical approach to tackle complex mathematical models in material science.

“On the Dynamics of Aeolian Sand Ripples” – This publication investigates the mathematical modeling of natural phenomena, showcasing the applicability of PDEs to environmental science.

These publications not only highlight Prof. Coclite’s expertise but also serve as a resource for researchers and students interested in mathematical modeling and PDEs.

Conclusion:

Prof. Giuseppe Maria Coclite is an exemplary candidate for the Best Paper Award, distinguished by his prolific research contributions and interdisciplinary collaborations in the field of partial differential equations. His impressive portfolio of over 170 publications reflects a deep engagement with complex mathematical problems and their applications. Addressing broader societal issues, enhancing communication strategies, and emphasizing practical applications could further strengthen his profile for recognition. Prof. Coclite’s dedication to advancing mathematical knowledge and his commitment to education ensure that his work will continue to inspire and inform the mathematical community for years to come.